Engaging pre-service EFL teachers in reflection through video-mediated team micro-teaching and guided discussions

ABSTRACT

This study investigates pre-service teachers’ engagement in reflection and reflective practice through video-recorded microteaching sessions. Using multiple qualitative tools (i.e. field notes, peer feedback, focus group discussions), we conducted a case study with 34 EFL pre-service teachers performing microteaching as part of a compulsory language teacher education course at a state university in southwestern Turkey, i.e. Burdur province. Analysed through thematic analysis, the data showed that watching their own video-recorded sessions with guided focus group discussions proved itself useful to involve them in reflection on their practices and notice several issues, which they did not perceive beforehand. Furthermore, developing critical insights into their practices, most participants were observed to make changes in their future practices, e.g. classroom language, time management, choice, and conduct of activities. Building on the theoretical research into the use of videos in microteaching for purposes of reflection and reflective practice, this study shows that using video-recorded sessions with follow-up group discussions is useful for helping pre-service teachers to engage in reflection and critical thinking.

KEYWORDS:

• Guided discussions
• language teacher education
• pre-service EFL teachers
• reflection
• reflective practice
• video-mediated team microteaching

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ali Karakaş

Dr. Ali Karakas is an Associate Professor in the Department of English Language Teaching at Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Turkey. He earned his PhD in Applied Linguistics from Southampton University, UK. His research interests include Global Englishes, ELF, Language Policy and Planning, Teacher Education. Currently, he is teaching various ELT courses for pre-service EFL teachers.

Ceyhun Yükselir

Ceyhun Yükselir is an Associate Professor of the Department of English Language and Literature at Osmaniye Korkut Ata University, Turkey. His research interests include teaching language skills, teacher education, reflective teaching, autonomous learning, technology in EFL teaching and applied linguistics with ELT focus.